STEM Learning Module
Modeling Hydrothermal Vents
Credit
Ocean Exploration Trust/Ocean Networks Canada
Hydrothermal vents appear as giant billowing chimneys of black smoke, with temperatures over 300°C. When this superheated water meets the cold ocean environment, the chemicals dissolved in the hot water instantly precipitates out as a solid. The result is the ever-growing stacks of metals and sulfides - some reaching 60 m tall. In this demonstration, students will build their own hydrothermal vent using two different temperatures of water and items found around classrooms.
Objectives & learning outcomes
Students will see how warm jets of water interact with cold, mimicking the effect of underwater hydrothermal vents.
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